The Truckee River relies on snow that falls in the Sierra Nevada during the winter months, and natural run-off combined with releases of water from Lake Tahoe and other reservoirs during the summer months to maintain flows that support water consumption needs, provide fish and other aquatic habitat, and recreation.
River System Overview
The Truckee River map above shows the entire river system, including Donner, Prosser, Boca, Stampede, and Independence reservoirs that are integral to the operation of the Truckee River. Donner and Independence are shown in green because they are privately owned bodies of water. Downstream of Reno and Sparks, Truckee River water is captured by Derby Dam where it is released down to Pyramid Lake, and a portion diverted to Lahontan Reservoir via the Truckee Canal.